Community radio station broadcasting out of Carleton University in Ottawa for over 36 years.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Matthew Crosier's Best of 2011

Matthew Crosier is the CKCU station manager. He also co-hosts a show with Dave Sarazin every Monday from 11 AM - 12:30 PM called Between Thought & Expression. Here are his favourite albums from the past year.

1. Sun Araw – Ancient Romans (Sun Ark)

From mountain peaks to underwater caves it’s a ride that demands your attention and time and rewards you with an escape of epic proportions

2. Bombino – Agadez (Cumbancha)

I can’t stop listening to this Tuareg guitarist, a Pied Piper for troubled times.

3. Tim Hecker – Ravedeath 1972 (Kranky)

Again Hecker shows there can be life in glitch. He takes the listener on a journey that was recorded in Iceland. Tune in, Turn on and drop the needle (the record needle that is). A great escape awaits.

4. Julianna Barwick – The Magic Place (Asthmatic Kitty)

An atmospheric journey conducted by this sound sculptor. It's an interesting trip down this rabbit hole.

5. Sidi Toure - Sahel Folk (Thrill Jockey)

6. Wooden Shjips – West (Thrill Jockey)

Produced by Phil Manley.

7. Lucinda Williams – Blessed (Lost Highway)

Produced by Don Was. Gritty and raw rock, this is one of the better discs in her catalogue. Cut to the core songwriting performed in her raspy sandpaper voice with a crack band ripping away. Great stuff.